Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu. ARCHIVE

Taiwanese actress and singer Barbie Hsu, best known for her role as Shan Cai in the 2001 hit Meteor Garden, has died at the age of 48. On Monday (February 3), the news of her death due to influenza-related pneumonia while vacationing in Japan sent shockwaves across the entertainment world, leaving fans mourning the loss of an icon. Born Xu Xi Yuan on October 6, 1976, in Taipei, Barbie Hsu first entered the entertainment industry in 1994 as part of the pop duo S.O.S alongside her younger sister, Dee Hsu. However, it was her breakout role in Meteor Garden that cemented her place in pop culture history. Starring alongside F4’s Jerry Yan, Vic Chou, Ken Chu, and Vanness Wu, her portrayal of the feisty yet lovable Shan Cai resonated with fans across Asia and beyond. Following Meteor Garden, Hsu continued to build an impressive resume, starring in Mars (2004), Corner with Love (2007), and Summer’s Desire (2010). She also made her mark in film, appearing in Silk (2006), Reign of Assassins (2010), and Million Dollar Crocodile (2012). Outside of acting, Barbie Hsu was a published author, releasing a beauty book in 2005 that showcased her expertise in skincare and wellness. She was also a passionate advocate for animal rights, working with PETA to raise awareness about the fur industry.

Life of love and heartbreak

Hsu’s personal life often mirrored the drama of her on-screen characters. She had high-profile relationships with Taiwanese actors Blue Lan and Vic Chou before marrying Chinese businessman Wang Xiaofei in 2011. The couple, who shared two children, divorced in 2021. In a twist worthy of a romance drama, Hsu rekindled her love with South Korean DJ Koo Jun-yup, whom she married in 2022. Despite her successes, Hsu battled health issues, including epilepsy and mitral valve prolapse, which led to several hospitalizations. Her sudden passing on February 3, 2025, marks the end of an era for fans of Asian pop culture.

25 things you didn’t know about Barbie Hsu

1. She debuted as a singer before transitioning to acting. 2. Her stage name “Big S” originated from her pop duo days. 3. She co-hosted Guess Guess Guess before Jacky Wu took over. 4. She was the first live-action Shan Cai in a Boys Over Flowers adaptation. 5. She wrote a bestselling beauty book in 2005. 6. She was a longtime vegetarian but gave up the diet to conceive. 7. She had a hotel named after her, the S Hotel in Taipei. 8. She was a passionate animal rights advocate. 9. She had 10 tattoos, including one done by her husband DJ Koo. 10. She once used hair-loss treatment on her eyebrows. 11. She was crowned PETA’s Asia’s Sexiest Vegetarian in 2009. 12. She reconnected with DJ Koo after he called her old phone number. 13. She cried on air when her ex-boyfriend’s band canceled an appearance. 14. She suffered a publicized fallout with her ex-husband over a mattress. 15. She had a strong bond with her sister, Dee Hsu, who is also a celebrity. 16. She made a splash at Cannes in 2006 with Silk. 17. She was known for her quirky and bold personality. 18. She starred in Meteor Garden II despite its mixed reviews. 19. Her character in Mars was one of the most complex roles she played. 20. She publicly supported LGBTQ+ rights in Taiwan. 21. She had a deep fear of flying but overcame it for her career. 22. She was known for her signature long, sleek hair. 23. She had an on-screen reunion with Vic Chou in Mars. 24. She was one of the first Asian actresses to collaborate with Michelle Yeoh. 25. Her impact on Asian drama remains unmatched. As tributes pour in, Barbie Hsu’s legacy as an actress, trendsetter, and beloved star will never be forgotten. Her unforgettable performances and larger-than-life presence will continue to inspire generations to come. PIA/CAM/ICA/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page